Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Dermatitis Herpetiformis is easily mistaken for atopic eczema and is frequently misdiagnosed as scabies, contact dermatitis, Staphylococcus infection, acne or a type of psoriasis. It shows as an intensely itchy, stinging and blistering rash, frequently on the outer surfaces of the knees and elbows, often on the buttocks, shoulders, back, chest, face and scalp. The blisters can burst and weep a clear fluid and leave a purplish scar when they heal. They can alaso become infected with Staphylococcus

Dermatitis Herpetiformis is in fact a manifestation of Coeliac disease and usually begins between the ages of about 10 and 40, often in the teenage years.

The rash usually clears up on a gluten-free diet.

For more detailed information on Dermatitis Herpetiformis and gluten please click here.